The Real Jagdgeschwader 53
"The Ace of Spades"
A History of Jagdgeschwader53
When one recalls the many Axis emblems representing the Luftwaffe Geschwader that engaged in aerial combat during World War II, there were perhaps thousands of both personal, unit, and squadron symbols intended to symbolize a unique place in the greatest conflict in human history.
For any Allied pilot who flew over the skies of Europe between the years of 1939 - 1945, one of the most recognizable and feared of these markings would have been the Pik-As, or "Ace of Spades" that adorned the BF-109 fighters of Jagdgeschwader53. Throughout the six-year clash of armies that tore the world apart, JG53 is well-remembered to be amongst the longest-standing and most deadly squadrons unleashed by the Luftwaffe.
Part Two: Origins
Part Three: Legion Condor
